A TEAM of specialists from Shropshire’s leading fine art auction house will be heading for Whitchurch to provide free valuations as part of the national Heritage Open Weekend.

Whitchurch Museum & Archives, in St Mary’s Street will be hosting Maryanne Lineker-Mobberley, who is a silver and jewellery specialist, Alexander Clement, who specialises in watches, Asian Art and general valuer and Abigail Molenaar, paintings, prints and sculpture specialist from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

The specialists will be available to value a wide range of treasured items and to talk about their history at the event to be held at Church House in Claypit Street.

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Appointments may be made in advance by contacting Halls Fine Art on 01743 450700 or just turn up on the day to have items valued.

It will be a happy return to the museum for Abigail.

“I used to volunteer for the museum as a student and always keep in touch with the curator Judith Hoyle who arranges the Whitchurch events every year,” she explained.

“Maryanne, Alexander and I will be there to value whatever people bring in and to give them advice.”

Constructed as a hall for St Alkmund's Parish Church, Church House is now owned by the trustees of Whitchurch Scout & Guide Group.

“The property was opened by Earl Brownlow in July 1908 for use by parishioners and associated organisations,” she said.

“In its early days, it was the meeting place of The Church Lads Brigade and The Girls Friendly Society, while during First World War inquests were also held on the premises.

“During its 114-year history, the hall has hosted many meetings, celebrations and social occasions.”

A selection of documents pertaining to its inception, design and previous uses will be on display across the Heritage Open Weekend.

Meanwhile, there will be a whole programme of events for the weekend, curated by museum, staff.

Tours of the iconic St Alkmund’s Church tower will be available, through pre-booking, from 10.30am to 3.45pm on Friday and Saturday.

Bookers are urged to check for a minimum age for booking.

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The church will also be open to visitors from 10.30am until 4.30pm both days.

Dodington Old Chapel will also be open on both days as will St George’s Catholic Church, in Claypit Street, while St John’s Methodist Church in  St John’s Street, will be open on Saturday.

A full programme of events will be available at the Heritage Centre.